Futhark's topics - tribe.net

Jotun's Bane Kindred's Open Events in 2010

Ludwig — Sat, 14 Nov 2009 20:30:08 GMT

Jotun's Bane Kindred (in Kansas City) holds open events, so that heathens and the heathen-curious, can come, meet us, and participate. Its a way that people can learn more about us and about heathenry, and a way we can learn more about them. Here's the list of all of our Open Events in 2010.

January 17, 2010 - Open Pubmoot - 6 PM @ O'Dowds at Zona Rosa in the Northland of Kansas City

March 13-14, 2010 - Open Ostara Faining - Noon on Saturday @ Gaea Retreat in McClouth, KS

May 23, 2010 - Open Pubmoot - 6 PM @ O'Dowds at Zona Rosa in the Northland of Kansas City

May 26-31, 2009 - Heartland Pagan Festival @ Camp Gaea - Not our event, but we'll give heathen workshops there and we'll have a booth as well

July 18, 2010 - Open Picnic - 4 PM @ English Landing Park in Parkville, MO

September 24-26, 2010 - Lightning Across the Plains - regional heathen gathering @ Camp Gaea - http://www.lightningacrosstheplains.com

November 7, 2010 - Open Pubmoot, dedicated to the Einherjar - 6 PM @ O'Dowds at Zona Rosa in the Northland of Kansas City

All of these events are open to the public. More information on all of them will eventually be posted on our message board.

Hope to see you at some of our events!

Mark Stinson
Jotun's Bane Kindred
Kansas City Area
http://heathengods.com

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Kindred Growing-Pains are Inevitable

Ludwig — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 13:51:33 GMT

When you are starting, growing, and maintaining a kindred or tribe, it is inevitable that there will be growing pains. Problems to deal with. Situations you did not anticipate. People who end up disappointing you. It is absolutely inevitable, because that is the way of the world. Life is a challenge. Anything worth doing is a challenge.

It is not healthy to panic everytime something goes wrong. It is not an effective strategy for facing down challenges. So, prepare yourself and the people involved with you in your kindred-building effort to the fact that there will be some growing pains, some problems, and that some of the people involved in your effort may fall short of expectations. These challenges are part of the process, and as you face them and come through them successfully, ultimately they make your group stronger.

In Jotun's Bane Kindred, we look to the massive oak tree that we take our oaths beneath..the “Old Man,” Forn Halr, for an example. He is a thick and powerful oak, and its impossible to stand beneath his outstretched limbs without respecting and acknowledging his strength and endurance. He has outlasted all the old trees around him. He had survived a 1000 storms. But this was not without some pain and loss on his part. He wears the scars of his battles. In places he is gnarled...places where limbs have been lost...and he bears the evidence of his years of living and surviving.

GROWING PAINS

First, when you are starting something new...building something new...there will be growing pains. I would define these circumstances as situations that you, another individual in your group, or the group as a whole has never encountered before. When building a kindred you are breaking new ground. Nevermind that there are other kindreds or tribes already in existance. Each tribe is different, with different challenges, different personalities, and different traditions to develop. So of course there will be growing pains.

Learn to look at growing pains as opportunities. Each one that you overcome, represents growth. Talk about it within your group in this way. When a problem develops within the group, the measure of that group and its leadership is not the fact there is a problem. The measure of that group and its leadership is how it deals with the problem. The strategy it uses. The answer it comes up with to the problem. How well it deals with and solves the problem.

Did you identify the problem quickly or let it languish? Did you face the problem head-on and fix it, or try to dodge it in some passive-aggressive fashion? Did the group come together, and solve the problem as a group or was there constant bickering or politics involved? Was the solution to the problems effective and lasting, or just a bandaid irresponsibly slapped over a festering wound? Is the solution to the problem, something the group as a whole is happy with? All of these questions are important to consider...and much more important that fretting over the fact there was a problem in the first place. Of course there was a problem...there will always be problems. The real question is always, how was the problem addressed.

THE ONLY OATH YOU CAN KEEP IS YOUR OWN

Besides growing pains, you will have people within the group that will disappoint you and the group. I'm not talking about the small disappointments (i.e. late paying their dues, missed an event, not working hard, etc.) that people bring to a group. Address and deal with the small disappointments directly. Talk about them, work on them, and strive for solutions that cause these small disapointments to happen less frequently, if at all. What I'm actually talking about here, are the big disappointments. The failure to maintain or fulfill a kindred oath.

When we start an oathed kindred, or a kindred with a clearly defined membership, we make commitments to one another. And these oaths and commitments are at the heart of what makes a kindred strong and viable as a group. You can count on the other members to stick together, work hard together, and accomplish collective goals as a tribe. These oaths also represent a commitment to advance each other individually, and to advance the group forward. In a perfect world no oath will be broken. We'd like to think that everyone we oath to, will keep their oath to us with the same determination that we keep our own oaths to them.

But this isn't a perfect world, and you can't control whether another person keeps his/her oaths. You can't force them to keep their oaths. You can't make them be someone they aren't. And no matter how hard you work to get to know someone, and make sure they are a person willing and able to faithfully keep their kindred oath...its impossible to really know. (Look at the divorce rate, if you need an example of how hard it is to know if another person will keep their oath).

The only thing we truly control is our own oath. We make our oath, we mean our oath, and we live up to that oath. That's what we control, and that's what's important to focus on. The world is not perfect, and people will disappoint us. When they do, react in a wise and prudent way, and protect yourself and your group from their inability to keep and fulfill their oath.

RECIPROCITY OF OATHS

A kindred oath is a reciprocal oath. Those taking the oath are committing to the group, and to the individual members of that group. Its important to understand that this establishes a web-of-oaths. And these oaths are not one-sided affairs. They are reciprocal in nature.

So, if an oathed member of a kindred is acting in a way that hurts the kindred, and all efforts have been made to address this behavior and correct it...and the oathed member continues to hurt the group, then steps must be taken to protect the group. Cut your losses. Either release the kindred oath...wipe it away as something that was not being kept in a reciprocal fashion, or if appropriate to the situation, declare the oathed member as an oath-breaker. But, the group itself...the kindred...the tribe...it must be protected from those that would hurt it through their own selfish actions.

Releasing an oath in this manner is a last resort, and every effort should be made to maintain the oath...reinforce the oath...and make it clear to the oathed member exactly what they are doing to jeopardize their kindred oath. But its important for the leadership of a tribe, to compartmentalize this problem as it develops.

For instance, if a member of a kindred is not showing up for things, failing in many of their obligations, and they are making risking decisions that are threatening their marriage, and about to bring a full-blown divorce into the midst of a kindred...this is a problem. You don't entrust important duties within the kindred to this problem-member. You don't assign them important responsibilities at a big event your kindred is hosting. You don't expose the soft-underbelly of the kindred to this problem-member. You do what you need to compartmentalize the potential damage this problem-member might to do to the kindred, until such time as that problem has been fixed. Or until they have behaved so badly, that their oath must be released.

This is a complex issue, and we all hope to not go through it at all...or at the very least, not very often. But it happens. Though you are oathed to someone, if someone is not being reciprocal in their oath...and are not holding up their end of the bargain, there comes a time when the tribe is no longer obligated to maintain their end of the bargain. When that time comes, release the oath and cut ties. Remove tribal obligations to the member who will not fulfill their own obligations to the tribe, and its members.

WHY WRITE THIS ESSAY?

One of Jotun's Bane Kindred's growing pains, was working through what you should do when a member breaks their oath to the kindred. Working through what to do when someone cannot or will not fulfill their obligation to our tribe. It was difficult trying to balance holding to our own oaths, while protecting our kindred from the problem-member's actions and decisions. And when we first encountered this, we weren't sure how the whole situation reflected on us as a group. So this was an essay written specifically for this collection of essays.

The bottom line is this. All kindreds and tribes will face growing pains, disappointments, and perhaps drama now and again. The measure of a strong and stable kindred is not the complete lack of these problems. I believe that to be impossible. The measure of a strong and stable kindred is how they deal with these inevitable problems. How they solve them. How they protect their tribe. How they learn from the problems. How they continue to grow and advance. That is the measure of a tribe.

Mark Stinson
Jotun's Bane Kindred
Kansas City Area
http://heathengods.com

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Leaving a Kindred Gracefully

Ludwig — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 13:24:49 GMT

This seems like an odd topic for an essay about heathenry. But life is complex. People are called up for active-duty by the military. People are offered better jobs, that are in other cities and states. Marriages break-up, and sometimes one must move to stay close to one's children. The circumstances of one's life can change, and this can make staying with a kindred difficult, if not impossible.

Let me first say, that I would not leave my kindred. I was one of the founding members of Jotun's Bane Kindred, and the formation of our kindred was based on a oath I made directly to Thor and our Gods, prior to me personally knowing even one other heathen. The formation of JBK was something that I had to do. And it is difficult to imagine a situation that could pull me away from my tribe. It means too much to me.

But there are times, when you will have to pull away from a group of people for circumstances beyond your control. If you care at all about your honor, your reputation (Gefrain), and your established friendships within that group...there are things you should do that will make your exit from that group more graceful. Less damaging.

First, you should face the group in-person and explain to them the circumstances of why you must leave. This should happen at an existing meeting, or if need be, a special meeting of the group. An email to the group, or the group's leadership will not suffice. Actually, an email to the group or its leadership completely lacks the directness, the honesty, or the courage that we expect to see from Tru heathens. An email will cause anger and disgust by the group towards you. But a face-to-face explanation to the group, allows them to all hear the facts at once, allows them to see your emotions and attitude about leaving, and allows them to ask questions and have a conversation with you about it.

If you must leave immediately, and a face-to-face meeting is impossible with the group...then its your obligation to call every member of that group, starting with the leadership, and explain to each of them that you are leaving, and why you have to leave. You begin with the leadership of the group out of respect, and so they can begin making the adjustments that need to be made to limit the damage to the group done by your leaving.

If your reasons for leaving are good, and any reasonable person can see why you must leave...telling the group you are leaving will likely not be confrontational. If you are a tight-knit group, telling them will be emotional, but not confrontational.

If you reasons for leaving are sort of sketchy, then expect some fairly serious questions to be asked of you about your reasoning and your motivations. There is no obligation on the members of the group you are leaving to “automatically” accept your reasons for leaving “without question.” After all, you are leaving the group...a group that you committed to. And while you control whether you leave or not, the group itself (and its members) are in control of how they react to your leaving. You have no control of their reaction.

Now, what I've explained above does not seem to be what most people leaving a group seem to want to do. I tell you this from the standpoint of having seen it in various types of groups during my lifetime, including our heathen tribe. Most people seem incapable of facing the group face-to-face and simply explaining why they must leave. For some reason, they can't just come and say:

“This isn't working out for me, I'd like to leave the group but I'd like to remain friends with this kindred.”

“This isn't working out for me, I'd like to start my own kindred, but I want to stay on friendly terms with this kindred.”

“I have to move away for (insert reason), but I want to stay in touch and on friendly terms with this kindred.

Instead, what most people do, is come up with justifications for their leaving that involve being angry with the group. They fear the reaction of the group to their leaving, so they build up anger and emotion towards the group. They begin looking at the group as their enemy, based on the reaction they “believe” they will get. Even though this reaction they “believe” they will get is probably farthest from the truth. And this frustration and anger builds, until they lash out at the group. Essentially, its easier for them to start some kind of fight with the group, so that they can blame their leaving the group on the group itself.

That sounds a little odd, but I've seen it over and over again. Rather than just face the group, explain their reasons, and then pulling away with friendships and their honor intact...people will often take the cowards way out, cause a fight, and then run off. Somewhere in their head, they feel this has shifted the blame and responsibility from their shoulders...but it actually makes things worse. They actually cause more damage to the group and themselves by leaving in this manner.

To limit this sort of damage to your group, kindred, or tribe, its not a bad idea to address the subject of “how to leave the group” in your group's by-laws. Talk about it with new members, so that they know what is expected of them should they ever have to leave. This will not completely prevent people from leaving in the worst of ways, but its better than not addressing the topic at all.

Mark Stinson
Jotun's Bane Kindred
Kansas City Area
http://heathengods.com

posted in Futhark - 0 replies

Want to Start Something? Start a Heathen Study Group.

Ludwig — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 03:19:04 GMT

Let's say you are a solitary heathen, in an area with one or two other solitary heathens. Or perhaps you are a solitary heathen, in a larger town...with a bunch of heathens that rarely gather together. And let's say you want something more.

Our way of life is tribal. We are better people...and can get more done, when we know and work together with other heathens of worth in our area. But starting a kindred sounds like an overwhelming task. Or perhaps, the people in your area are reluctant to be involved in a kindred-building process.

One solution to all of these situations, is to start a Heathen Study Group.

You set a date, a month or more away. You offer to host. You talk with all the heathens in your area, and invite them. Speak of the hospitality you wish to offer. Tell them you want to at least know them better, and you'd like to learn along side them. And explain why coming to the Study Group would be fun and educational.

You can even start a Meetup Group, or a Group on Facebook, or a Yahoo e-list. You can hand out or hang up notices at the local pagan book store. Honestly, you can promote it as much or as little as you like, depending on who you want there...and what you want out of it.

As far as the Heathen Study Group itself, its very easy to organize. I would start with the Havamal. Its very straight-forward, focuses on how to "be heathen," and makes for great discussions.

I would get multiple translations. If there are only two of you, I would recommend maybe 4 translations. If there will more of you, use more translations. You really can't have too many of them. You can find 7 translations on-line at this link:

http://heathengods.com/temple/modules/articles/index.php?cat_id=10

I would recommend Bellows, Hollander, Chisholm, and maybe Auden & Taylor's. If you have Larrington in book format, that's another good one, but isn't available on-line.

Have the translations printed out for the first Study Group. Let everyone know that is coming, that they should read the first 10 or 15 stanzas prior to the Study Group. And since you are organizing the event, make sure you read over them too...and put some thought into what they mean to you.

On the day of the Heathen Study Group, make sure you have a place where all of you can sit comfortably. A place with enough light to read from the translations. Have some sodas or other drinks available, and also some snacks. Hospitality is very important to heathens, and important to forming connections between friends.

When everyone arrives, greet them all. If you don't know their names, learn them. Offer them food and drink upon their arrival, and make sure they know where the restroom is in your home. Be a good host.

Once everyone has arrived, hand out the translations. Then go stanza by stanza, taking turns reading each translation of the stanza you are focusing on. For instance, take turns reading out-loud the various translations of the first stanza. Once all the translations of the first stanza have been read, discuss what's different about them...both in language and in meaning. And discuss what each of you think the stanza is getting at. What's the point its trying to make in that stanza.

Remember, there are no "right" answers...and don't get in arguments! LOL. Make sure everyone is allowed to share their opinion. If one participant is being a little quiet, ask them their opinion. Make sure everyone feels welcome and valued. After all, you are the host.

Once the first stanza has been fully discussed, move onto the second stanza, and so on.

In Jotun's Bane Kindred's study groups on the Havamal, we tried to get through 15 stanzas in a night. But don't rush. If you only get through 10, that's fine. You're not trying to set a speed record. You are attempting to learn, and think, and come to some shared conclusions about what you agree on...and perhaps what you don't agree on.

As the host, make sure the study groups are fun. Have snacks...laugh a lot between stanzas, and enjoy it. Offer smoke breaks, if you have smokers among you. Don't make it into homework, or something you dread. Make it something that people look forward to...

Now, as the Heathen Study Group continues, you can begin rotating where it is held, if someone else in the group seems interested in hosting as well. Perhaps have a small faining (blot) before the study group sessions, just so you are also practicing your religion, and not just learning about it. Or perhaps have a small Folk Symbel afterwards.

If over time, you find additional heathens that you think have worth, then perhaps invite him/her to a study group...and see how it goes. If someone involved in the Study Group is always disrupting it, or has no worth, or makes the other members consistently uneasy, talk with them about it. If they won't change their behavior, tell them they are no longer welcome. Don't let one bad guest break up your Study Group.

Over time, the members of the Study Group will come to know each other well. Who they are, how they think, and how dependable they are. Friendships will form. And over time, you the subject of forming a kindred or tribe may be brought up, either by you or another participant.

This Study Group method, would also work for an already established kindred...that wanted to do more collaborative study. It would also work for kindreds that include families with teenagers, in order to get them more involved.

There are likely variations on this theme, and different ways to do it. I'm simply describing how we did it, and it worked for us. Feel free to make this your own, or do it any which way you like.

If you have questions, feel free to contact me here or by email. voidpulp@yahoo.com

Mark Stinson
Jotun's Bane Kindred
Temple of Our Heathen Gods
http://www.heathengods.com

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Just 3 More Days to Register for Lightning Across the Plains

Ludwig — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 18:56:35 GMT

THE REGISTRATION DEADLINE FOR LIGHTNING ACROSS THE PLAINS IS JUST THREE DAYS AWAY! The registration deadline is September 12th.

You can register with PayPal or by snail mail. Any PayPal registrations need to be completed by the end of September 12, and any snail mail application forms need to be post-marked on September 12th or earlier. Register at this link:

http://www.heathengods.com/lightning

Registrations are only $40 for Individuals and $60 for a Family of up to five. All camping fees and dinner on Friday and Saturday night are included with your Registration.

Heathenry is about community, gathering as a people, shaking a man or woman's hand, looking them in the eye, hearing their voice, telling stories, getting to know each other. Its letting your kids play together. Letting your spouses get to know each other. Its about laughing at dumb jokes, and telling stories from your life. Its about mingling Wyrd...and taking the measure of another person, and finding them of worth.

And that's what Lightning Across the Plains is focused on. Registrations have been strong...and its promising to be an amazing gathering. Heathens from across the Midwest will be gathering on September 25-27...get registered so you can be apart of it.

:-)

Hail Our Gods and Our Folk!

Mark Stinson
Jotun's Bane Kindred
Kansas City Area
Temple of Our Heathen Gods
http://www.heathengods.com/lightning

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The Voluspa Recited - Video

Ludwig — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 21:57:16 GMT

At last year's Midwest Thing in Minnesota, I made an oath to learn the Voluspa...and be able to recite it in Symbel by this year's Midwest Thing.

On September 5th, 2009 during Symbel at Midwest Thing I recited the Voluspa from memory in fulfillment of that oath. Our ancestors had an oral story-telling tradition, and it is something worth reviving...

The Voluspa Recited on Facebook:

http://tinyurl.com/m3tlsw

The Voluspa Recited on Photobucket:

http://tinyurl.com/mob7rc

I've posted two versions, in case you have problems with one of them.

HAIL OUR GODS AND OUR FOLK!

Mark Stinson

Jotun's Bane Kindred
Kansas City Area
Temple of Our Heathen Gods
http://heathengods.com/lightning

posted in Futhark - 0 replies

Your Runes Experience

Leila — Fri, 14 Aug 2009 02:50:44 GMT

How did you come to learn the runes? Did you see it, experience it, dream it, read it? Did you come to the runes before or after your main education in the otherworld arts? Tell me a story :-)

posted in Futhark - 2 replies

Opinions

hermeticbear — Thu, 30 Jul 2009 16:17:34 GMT

I was searching about the 'net and I came across two books that I thought might be of interesting. Before I go off and buy them, I was wondering if anyone has some opinion or read them.

One is called Bright from the Well by Dave Lee.

The other one is called Helsongs by Robin Artisson.

Has anyone read these books? What is your opinion of them? what did you like or dislike about them? Have you ready anything else by these authors? What do you like or dislike about them?

posted in Futhark - 2 replies

Sat Aug 8th Runic Techniques

Meka — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 22:40:28 GMT

Runic Techniques

Meditation, Divination & Magic
August 8th 2009
4-6pm $10 door
Richard Hugo House, 1634 11th Ave. (Capitol Hill), Seattle, WA.

This workshop addresses Runic techniques for meditation, divination and magic, as well as exploring current works written on the three topics. The meditation unit will be the presenter's own methods which are designed to facilitate further development regarding magical and divinatory skill. The other units will focus more on both historical and contemporary practices, and things we can do (talismans, divination lots, etc).

This workshop will conclude the New Perspectives on Runes series . Participants at this lecture are expected to have basic knowledge of the Rune Staves and practice in these areas will be helpful.

With over fifteen years of Runic and occult experience, Chris Travers is a Master in the Rune-Gild, an has led Runic discussion groups for the last decade. His book, "The Serpent and the Eagle: An Introduction to the Elder Runic Tradition" is available through www.IOTBooks.com. He has studied history at the Evergreen State College.

posted in Futhark - 2 replies

Midwest Heathen Gathering - Lightning Across the Plains 2009

Ludwig — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 09:15:03 GMT

Heathenry is about community, gathering as a people, shaking a man or woman's hand, looking them in the eye, hearing their voice, telling stories, getting to know each other. Its letting your kids play together. Letting your spouses get to know each other. Its about laughing at dumb jokes, and telling stories from your life. Its about mingling Wyrd...and taking the measure of another person, and finding them of worth.

On September 25-27, 2009, heathens from around the Midwest will gather at Gaea Retreat, a pagan campground about 40 minutes outside of the Kansas City Area. Our registration packet contains a schedule for the event, and details on food, workshops, Symbels, the Blot, what you'll need to bring, and everything else you could possibly want to know about the event. Just click here:

http://tinyurl.com/5txqwh

Your registration includes all camping fees and dinner on Friday and Saturday night. Individual Registrations are $40 and Family Registrations are $60. The event includes:

---Dinners Provided on Friday & Saturday
---Symbels Friday and Saturday Night
---A Blot/Faining on Saturday Evening
---Asatru & Craft Workshops all Weekend
---Viking Games Saturday Afternoon
---Children's Games and Activities
---A Heathen Auction on Sunday Morning

All Tru Heathens are welcome at this event. To register using PayPal or any major credit card, click here to go to the registration page:

http://www.heathengods.com/lightning

To discuss this event on our message board, click here:

http://tinyurl.com/5epaz5

We're announcing this 11 months in advance, to give everyone time to put this in their calendar...get the money together to attend, etc. We believe that heathenry is gaining momentum here in the Midwest, and we want to gather heathens from all around the region (and beyond) to discuss that...and get to know each other better...

We look forward to seeing you at the gathering...

Mark Stinson
Jotun's Bane Kindred
Kansas City Area
http://heathengods.com

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Upcoming Open Events in Kansas City, Topeka, & St. Louis

Ludwig — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 07:33:10 GMT

The Heathen Communities in Kansas & Missouri are growing. A year ago
there were no open events in Kansas City, St. Louis, and Missouri.
That has changed...

St. Louis Area Meetup - Aug 2, 2008 @ 7 PM
http://tinyurl.com/639eph

Topeka Meet & Greet - August 9th @ 5 PM @ Classic Bean
http://tinyurl.com/5up2pj

Kansas City Open Pubmoot - Sept. 21, 2008 @ 6 PM @ O'Dowds
http://tinyurl.com/6m2fvu

If you know any heathens within driving distance of these locations,
please help us get the word out to them...

Mark Stinson
Jotun's Bane Kindred
Kansas City, MO

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May 18th Open Faining to Freyja in KC - 33 Photos...

Ludwig — Mon, 19 May 2008 13:18:46 GMT

On May 18th, 2008 Jotun's Bane Kindred held an Open Faining to Freyja at English Landing Park in Parkville, Missouri. This was our first open faining since we oathed as a Kindred...and it was exciting to have 15 people turn out for it...11 adults and 4 children. The day was beautiful, the faining went well, we had a picnic afterwards, and ended with a Symbel using Mead that Adam made. It was a great gathering for both the adults and children. Click this link to view 33 photos from the day...

http://www.heathengods.com/events/05182008faining/

Mark Stinson
Jotun's Bane Kindred
Kansas City Area

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Starting a Kindred from Scratch

Ludwig — Fri, 16 May 2008 08:15:42 GMT

I know some of you in this Tribe do not have a Kindred in your area, so I thought you might find this information interesting. There are many ways to start/grow a Kindred, but here's what we did:

CREATE A MEETUP.COM SITE

Its a little expensive at about $20 a month, but its easy and convenient for those that aren't very web-savy. It allows you to set up events...add an "About" page...and it sends out automated reminders etc. It also ranks very high on Google and Yahoo searches. So if a solitary Heathen is looking for a group in your area, and does a search, they are sure to find you. And the final plus I can think of, is that often there are Heathens waiting for someone to start the meetup.com site. When I started mine, there were 18 heathens waiting for a meetup site here in Kansas City. Did they all pan out? No way. But of the five members of our Kindred, three of them found us from the Meetup.com site. Now that our group is established, there may come a time when we pull the Meetup site down. But it has served us well, here at the beginning.

SET UP A FIRST MEETING

I knew zero heathens in my area, and there was not an existing Kindred in my area. I was in contact with one heathen in my area by e-mail, but did not know him very well yet. We set our first Meetup at an Applebee's, and me and the one heathen I knew met a few weeks beforehand to discuss what we wanted to build and how we wanted to build it. We made sure that first meeting was positive, energetic, and organized. We figured no one would come back if we the first meeting was boring or disorganized.

PROMOTE THE MEETING

You have to do more than just set a meeting. You need to promote it. Put up signs at book stores and coffee shops, post it on message boards where you might find interested parties, and do everything you can to let everyone you know. In all of our promotional materials we made it clear we were looking for Tru Heathens, and that this was not Wicca or Wicca-tru. We made it clear we wanted to honor the Northern European Gods, our ancestors, and the Vaettir...

AT THE MEETING

At the first meeting, we made our goals very clear. We made it clear where we were headed and how we wanted to get there. We took down everyone's phone number, name, and address. We gave out handouts about Asatru and a list of good books to read. And we had fun, having great conversations about Asatru and the gods.

A SEPERATE WEBSITE

While Meetup.com is a great tool, we wanted our own website. Something that would set the tone for what we were building...and something with an active message board and losts of heathen resources. And when we eventually shut our meetup.com site down, a conventional website would be much less expensive to run.

EVENTS...LOTS OF EVENTS

If you are building a Kindred, you have to get to know the other people. You have to talk to them on the phone, e-mail them, visit their homes, invite them over to your home, etc. And Events are another good way to make sure the potential Kindred is getting together fairly often. We had Havamal study groups. A symbel at a park. A faining in one of the member's homes. And we got together for dinners and holidays. Honoring the Gods, our ancestors, and the Vaettir are a major part of being a practicing Heathen. So we did this frequently, and still do.

OFFER CLASSES AND/OR WORKSHOPS (Swain's idea, and a good one!)

Many people have not heard of Asatru or Heathenry...or they have a mistaken or distorted view of what it is. By offering classes and workshops on Asatru 101, the Gods, the Ancestors, the Vaettir, and the Runes...you can educate people about Asatru and raise interest in Asatu in your area. You could simply give a talk on what it is about Asatru that appealed to you. This can be done before the formation of the Kindred to lay the groundwork and find potential Kindred members, and it can be done once the Kindred is formed...to grow your Kindred and educate the public. These classes can be offered at local coffeeshops, new-age book stores, and even community colleges in your area. Anywhere someone will listen.

INVOLVE YOURSELF

We also involved ourselves in each others interests. One of our members likes to hunt. Many of the potential kindred members went hunting with him. One of our members plays bass in a band. We went to his shows to listen to the band and support him. If you like these people enough to form a "family" with them, then you should be willing to make the time to hang out with them, and learn about what interests them. They will in turn, learn about what interests you. And over time...you'll find you have a lot of common interests...or develop a lot of common interests.

ELIMINATE THOSE YOU CAN'T CALL FRIEND

To form a Kindred...take Oaths...symbel together, and mingle your Wyrd...you have to see the other people that are involved as interesting, talented people of worth. If they are "broken" people, with bad character...then have the fortitude to eventually eliminate them from the picture. This sounds harsh...but you are forming a "family." A "broken" person may be the very thing that destroys your efforts. This isn't about choosing people that are exactly like you...or people that always agree with you. Its about choosing to ally yourself with Heathens of worth.

TALK ABOUT WHERE YOU STAND

Talk about where you stand on your beliefs. Explore each other's POV on various topics, including controvertial topics. What topics are you unwilling to compromise about? What topics bring about disagreement within your potential Kindred? What will the Kindred stand for, and can everyone that is involved support those views? What are you going to just agree to disagree about, and will that be workable? All of these questions are important to ask, because you don't want something unspoken popping up six months later and tearing a big hole in your group.

DON'T RUSH IT

There will be a temptation to rush into forming the Kindred. Or to move too fast. Especially newbies like me will want to move way too fast. Slow it down. Get to know each other. Make sure its right. We waited six months to form our Kindred. We thought that was about right, but make up your own mind based on your situation. But just take you time, and make it right.

READ THE LORE

As a Kindred we all read the Poetic Edda and the Prose Edda during the time we were forming the Kindred. We were all focused on the Lore. And this was also a good goal for all the newbies...and encouraged them to get a good foundation set by reading the Lore. Most everyone read a lot more than just the Lore...but that was the minimum.

COME UP WITH A STATEMENT OF UNDERSTANDING

Write some things down. Some basic rules. Will decisions be made by a leader, by a majority vote, or by a consensus vote? How will new members be considered, mentored, and eventually accepted into the Kindred? Will there be titles or positions within the Kindred, and will these positions have responsibilities? What will they be? Some people call it By-Laws...I liked calling it a Statement of Understanding. Whatever you call it, writing one and then coming to an agreement on its contents can avoid problems later.

MAKE IT HAPPEN

From day one, we said, "We are going to do this, and nothing will stand in our way." That served us well. When roadblocks popped up, we worked around them or drove right through them. We were not willing to accept failure, and this was important to our success.

I'm sure others have more advice, different advice, and possibly advice that comes from much more experience and wisdom. I just wanted to post our experience from our POV, in case anyone could benefit from it. I could add more, but that's enough for now...

More in-depth information on how to start a Kindred can be found at this link:

http://tinyurl.com/4gg9de

Mark Stinson

Jotun's Bane Kindred
Kansas City Area
http://www.heathengods.com

posted in Futhark - 0 replies

Tornado in the Midwest - Thor's Great Battle

Ludwig — Mon, 05 May 2008 12:42:43 GMT

On the night of May 2nd, 2008...an F-3 Tornado passed over our neighborhood, and more specifically right over our house. It took a bunch of our shingles and some tar-paper off our roof, broke windows, scuffed up the outside our home, bent our garage door, and shifted our house enough that the front door doesn't close quite right. We're going to need a whole new roof and the garage door replaced...plus a variety of other repairs. (Our satellite television isn't working, for goodness sakes!)

But, our next door neighbor's house is condemned, as in our neighbor's house across the street. Both of their houses had significant portions of their roofs torn off and the interiors/belongings soaked with rain. There is damage to hundreds of homes...two were completely destroyed (just gone), and several were knocked off of their foundations. There were shingles, insulation, pieces of siding and lawn furniture every where...tons of sight-seers for two day, and our power was out for a day and a half.

But, amazingly...no one was killed. There were no serious injures. Some folks were cut with flying glass, but everyone is going to be O.K. No one in my family was hurt. When my wife Jennifer heard the "Freight Train" sound, she gathered our three children up and they all ran to the basement. The sirens did not go off. I was at the police station at the time...and couldn't be home with them.

Its hard not to picture AsaThor battling the destructive forces of this Thurse as it descended on our community...strking it repeatedly with his hammer...rolling in conflict with it as it crashed from the sky to the ground...diverting its path to ensure that the only two homes completely destroyed were empty of people that night. And though the damage was done...the people remain, and we will rebuild. That next day I shared a beer with Thor...and congratulated him on his victory in battle.

http://tinyurl.com/6ycxsy

Follow the above link to see 42 photos of the damage and clean up efforts.

Mark Stinson
Jotun's Bane Kindred
Kansas City Area
http://www.heathengods.com

posted in Futhark - 2 replies

Heartland Pagan Festival May 22-26 Near Kansas City

Ludwig — Thu, 01 May 2008 09:09:54 GMT

If you are heathen, and live in the Kansas City Area (or within driving distance), then May is a great month for interacting with other Heathens. Jotun's Bane Kindred has two open events in May, and there is a huge pagan festival as well...

Besides our Open Pubmoot on May 4th ( http://tinyurl.com/2mxlt5 ) and our Open Faining to Freyja on May 18th ( http://tinyurl.com/3goc63 ) there is also the Heartland Pagan Festival on May 22nd through May 26th, 2008 at Gaea Retreat about an hour away from Kansas City. This is a pagan festival, but like-minded heathens will gather together at the festival and eat and Symbel together. Click here for more details:

http://tinyurl.com/3hogc8

If you do decide to go to the Festival, e-mail me at voidpulp@yahoo.com ... and let me know, so I can tell you where to find us!

Mark Stinson
http://www.heathengods.com

posted in Futhark - 0 replies

Kansas City Area - Open Heathen Events in May

Ludwig — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 22:28:02 GMT

On May 4th, 2008 at 6:00 PM we're hosting an Open Pubmoot at O'Dowds Irish Pub in the Northland. This event is for long-time heathens, newcomers to heathenry, and those who are curious. Everyone is welcome. There will be food, drink, interesting conversations, and lots of laughter. For more details including a map to the location click here...

http://tinyurl.com/2mxlt5

On May 18th, 2008 at 4:00 PM there will be an Open Faining to Freyja at English Landing Park in Parkville, MO. A Faining is a group religious event honoring the Vanic Goddess Freyja. Our last Faining at this park was quite an event. Bring picnic food and drinks for after the event. For more details, including a map to the location click here...

http://tinyurl.com/3goc63

If you know of heathens in the Kansas City Area or within driving distance, please feel free to pass this message on to them...

Thanks,

Mark Stinson
Jotun's Bane Kindred
http://www.heathengods.com

posted in Futhark - 0 replies

St. Louis Asatru Meetup May 31 @ 7 PM

Ludwig — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 12:56:35 GMT

There is now a St. Louis Asatru Meetup! Sean Cook began the Meetup group just a few days ago, and there are already 5 heathen members as of this writing. Here's the meetup site...

http://asatru.meetup.com/260/

Their very first meetup is scheduled for Saturday, May 31st at 7pm, at the Applebees at 11077 New Halls Ferry Road, Florissant, MO 63033. The first meeting is "for everyone to get to know each other and start to build fellowship for our fellow Heathens. We will decide how to proceed during this meeting."

This is good news for Missouri, and our Folk in and around St. Louis. Please, help Sean spread the word to heathens in his area...

Mark Stinson
http://www.heathengods.com
Jotun's Bane Kindred
Kansas City, Missouri

posted in Futhark - 0 replies

New photo of tattoo backpiece

tattooshaman — Thu, 28 Feb 2008 16:56:04 GMT

Hi there. I posted a pic of a backpiece I did about ten years ago. Hope y'all like it.

T

posted in Futhark - 0 replies

The Rune Primer

Fri, 22 Feb 2008 18:29:44 GMT

Heill List,

I would like to share a book with the group that I believe will be helpful for the new-comers in
the subject of runes: Sweyn Plowright, The Rune Primer; A Down-to-Earth Guide to the Runes,
Rune-Net Press.

Regular Edition:
Short ISBN 1847282466
Long ISBN 9781847282460

Pocket Edition
ISBN 0958043515

At the first glance of the title, it leaves one curious on how exactly would a rune book be
down-to-earth? This leaves a lot of open questions now-a-days with the vast amount of esoteric
information, and academics. Then through my surpise I have found the information a bit more than
down-to-earth, but a vast amount of general information that will be unlikely seen anywhere else.
The author has offered a very rudimentary volume that is very readable and concise. I'm rather
impressed with his hands on input he shared with various authors, and I found his responses to be
very responsible for the general new-comer to the subject. Though, I'm not entirely sure on the
credibility gap for the use of divination with the runes - which he adds his personal
interpretations for divination, and done so admitting no authority to the meanings given (which
shows a very responsible author and I commend him for being honest). Which anything critical
mentioned, hardly takes away from what the author's whole intention is in writing this book - the
general concern the author presented is to "throw caution when needed". Close to the end of the
book, comes a unique surpise, which is a topic I rather enjoy personally, 'ek erilar/z'. I believe
that the author comes through with the difficulties to the study of language structure and used
this example as a primer on the descriptive principles used in the difficulties of runology.
Excellent introduction, and highly recommended for the new-comers.

I rate the book 4 stars.

Reviewed by: Mike Garcia 2008 ©

Best,
Mike

posted in Futhark - 0 replies

Books: R. I. Page

khrysso — Sat, 02 Feb 2008 23:32:45 GMT

Haven't visited here for a while, greetings to all.

Was perusing the Books thread and remembered that back in about 1993, when I first became interested in various kinds of divination, I went to the Columbus (Ohio) library* and found a _Runes_ book by R. I. Page, published in 1987.

I was particularly interested in this book because a) I had the sense that Blum had made it all up as he went along and was not to be considered authoritative in anything but his own interpretive system, b) I prefer to know the roots of what's behind what I'm being taught, and c) my bachelor's degree is in Linguistics and I wanted to compare knowledge of the runes as an alphabet with usage as a system of divination and see if any connections between them seemed credible to me.

(I concluded back then that my suspicions about Blum were correct, which seems to be the consensus in this tribe. I only use his books for the charts now, if I use them at all.)

That was 15 years ago, of course, and though I have since acquired a set or two of (Blum's, with the notorious blank) runes myself, I lost interest in divination along the way.

However, the impression that remains with me regarding Page's book is still overwhelmingly positive--it struck me as well researched and solidly presented.

I haven't seen Page's name here in any of the threads that I've ever perused, either today or formerly, and I'm wondering what anybody else knows about this author, and if others may have positive impressions of this book as well.

*I don't want to resist gloating that the Columbus Public Library system continually gets named as the best, or one of the best, in the US. Gloat, gloat.

posted in Futhark - 2 replies

Asatru Artwork Archive

Ludwig — Sun, 17 Feb 2008 23:27:31 GMT

In order to give our website, the Temple of Our Heathen Gods a unique look, I tried to find artwork that depicts Heathen Gods and other Norse subject matter in a way we aren't used to seeing. We wanted artwork that was powerful and meaningful. After all, art is supposed to inspire.

Heathen Gods and Goddesses? Valkyries? Vikings? Longboats? Ragnarok? Yggdrasil and the Nine Worlds? Hammers, Valknots, Drinking Horns? I weeded through 1000's of web-searches on various engines for new and original heathen images. Though the old favorites are included as well. Our archive now contains 430 Images. Feel free to browse through them, download, and use them for not-for-profit purposes.

Click here to start browsing our images archive:

http://www.heathengods.com/temple/modules/myalbum/

Mark Stinson
Jotun's Bane Kindred
Kansas City Area

posted in Futhark - 2 replies

runic tattoos

father-oceania — Tue, 04 Oct 2005 21:14:58 GMT

i was thinking about getting a few done. it would go nicely with my viking compass i will have done soon...but i dont want to mess around and put something on my body that may negatively alter my life. im afraid i will put two things that mean something positive together to form something that isnt so positive. kind of like when you put two different chinese kanji together to forn another word. what kind of resources should i look at before hand?

posted in Futhark - 8 replies

Rune books

*foul tasting faery* — Wed, 28 Feb 2007 04:58:21 GMT

So I was at the used bookstore today and I bought a couple of books about runes. They are actually the complimentary books you get when you buy a set. One is called "The Book of RuneCards" the other is called "The Book of Runes". Both books are by Ralph H. Blum. Has anybody had any experience with his concepts and teachings of runes? I am a total newbie to runes and Norse mythology in general. I am mostly celtic based, but have developed a growing interest in my viking/Norse roots since I received a Thor's Hammer pendant as a gift in a white elephant exchange at Yule. Does anybody have any recommendations for good books to read up on? Also, which set of runes do most of you all use? The 25 set or the 29 set? Am I mistaken that there is also a 33 set? Any info would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

posted in Futhark - 10 replies

keyboard RUNES?

Sun, 18 Mar 2007 19:30:48 GMT

What runes can be made with a normal keyboard?
Is there a rune font available?

An experiment (based on 'elder' futhark):
F - |//
n
D - |>
|\\
R
K - <
X
P

H
+
I
§
\|\
|= - C
\|/
S - |/|

T - /|\
B
M
|X|
|\
XX - <>
|><|
O - _O_

posted in Futhark - 3 replies

Runes or Lots?

Wed, 14 Nov 2007 23:06:29 GMT

Heill List,

I'm curious for the lists opinion of traditional rune casting? Tacitus explains something unique which lots are made with notae marked on them (Germania). Was/Is this the tradition that followed to rune casting? Many authors think what Tacitus referenced is the runes unmistakably, however, were is the evidence?

"Auguries and Method of Divination. Augury and divination by lot no people practise more diligently. The use of the lots is simple. A little bough is lopped off a fruit-bearing tree, and cut into small pieces; these are distinguished by certain marks, and thrown carelessly and at random over a white garment. In public questions the priest of the particular state, in private the father of the family, invokes the gods, and, with his eyes toward heaven, takes up each piece three times, and finds in them a meaning according to the mark previously impressed on them. If they prove unfavourable, there is no further consultation that day about the matter; if they sanction it, the confirmation of augury is still required. For they are also familiar with the practice of consulting the notes and flight of birds. It is peculiar to this people to seek omens and monitions from horses. Kept at the public expense, in these same woods and groves, are white horses, pure from the taint of
earthly labour; these are yoked to a sacred car, and accompanied by the priest and the king, or chief of the tribe, who note their neighings and snortings. No species of augury is more trusted, not only by the people and by the nobility, but also by the priests, who regard themselves as the ministers of the gods, and the horses as acquainted with their will. They have also another method of observing auspices, by which they seek to learn the result of an important war. Having taken, by whatever means, a prisoner from the tribe with whom they are at war, they pit him against a picked man of their own tribe, each combatant using the weapons of their country. The victory of the one or the other is accepted as an indication of the issue."

Through my research on lots, I have found it to be the shortest straw tradition, to say, one picked out of group for death or possibly to show innocence, pairing of drinking partners,and whom may be the messenger (with other examples of the use)? Some laws reflect this - Lex Frisionum, The First Frisian Laws:

"If a man is killed during a riot in a street crowd, and the killer can not be found due to the large number of people present, he who wants to claim a fine for this man is allowed to call forward seven men for this manslaughter and to accuse each one of them of the crime, and each one of them must excuse himself with a twelvefold oath for the crime. Than they must be led to the church and lots must be laid on the altar, or if this can not be done near a church, on the relics of the saints. These lots must be as follows: two sticks of a broken twig, which are called wickers [willow-withe] , one of which will be marked with the sign of the cross, while the other remains unmarked, and they are wrapped in pure wool and put on the altar or on the relics; and the priest if he is there, or, if there is no priest, an innocent boy, must take one of these lots from the altar; and meanwhile God is called upon, if He will give a sign to prove that these seven, who swore because of
the killing, swore truthfully. If he takes the lot, that is marked with the cross, the ones who swore are not guilty; if however he takes the other one, than each of the seven makes his lot, that is a wicker, from a twig, an draws on it his sign, which he and the ones around him can recognize; and they must be wrapped in pure wool and laid on the altar or on the relics; and the priest, if he is there, or otherwise an innocent boy, as above, takes the lots one by one from the altar and asks for the one who recognizes his lot. He whose lot happens to be last, must pay the fine for the killing, while the ones whose lots were picked up before are absolved. "

In Egil's Saga, it shows how the lots was used to pair him and others for a night of drinking:

"But before the tables were removed the earl said that they should cast lots to drink together in pairs, man and woman, so far as numbers would allow, but the odd ones by themselves. They cast then their lots into the skirt of a cloak, and the earl drew them out. The earl had a very beautiful daughter then in the flower of youth; the lot decreed that Egil should sit by her for the evening."

In Heimskringla it is mentioned also how lots are casted to determine who set out as the messenger.

IMHO, the tradition here that I may find if rune casting exist to compare with the lots, that it indeed gave the future of the person who got the lot for ill or good intents. Which may show how scripts could of came in for entertainment purposes from this tradition from the lots?

There is more cases showing the lots being used for the purposes as explained above, however, what is your opinion?

Any thoughts?

Best,
Mike

posted in Futhark - 19 replies

anyone else having trouble loading pictures?

Fri, 30 Nov 2007 21:05:13 GMT

I tried uploading a picture of some Runic Charms and the picture just won't appear.. I'm confused

posted in Futhark - 0 replies

Jotun's Bane Kindred Forming in Kansas City

Ludwig — Wed, 28 Nov 2007 12:06:30 GMT

A few months ago, Kansas City did not have an organized (or even a
disorganized) heathen group or Kindred. So we began meeting and
discussing one. We've been faining together, and gathering for
symbel. And we've been studying the Hávamál together as a group.

We'll be formalizing our Kindred in the Spring, and we'll call it
Jotun's Bane Kindred. One of our members created a hammer for us,
from solid brass. And the name for the Kindred comes from that
amazing object he created for the Kindred.

We'll be gathering together for Yule...and we have an Open Pubmoot
scheduled for January 13th, here in Kansas City. Our Temple Library
(free e-books) has grown quite a bit, and our web presence is coming
along well. And we have photos from our November faining that you
can check out, if you are curious what a Kindred in Kansas City
looks like! Here's the link to our News page, and from there you
can check out everything else...

http://heathengods.com/temple/modules/news/

If you know any Heathens in the Kansas City area, let them know
about us. We'd like to meet them...

Thanks,

Mark Ludwig Stinson

posted in Futhark - 0 replies

Draugr and Charms

Fri, 02 Nov 2007 21:43:27 GMT

Heill list,

I've been doing some research on some charms with the use of runes, and one in particular struck my interest from a discussion on another forum. Charms as to our better information we have was commonly used to rid of some type of evil or to keep it away. Though not to dismiss the fact it may have been for good also; which is shown in some Middle-Ages literature. However, my argument here may (if accepted) show Northern Myth with runic finds (however very skeptical)? Davidson in her work the, 'The Road to Hel', gives a excellent description on various aspects of the 'draugr':

[...]
"The unpopular Hrappr, in Laxdæla Saga,1 who insisted on being buried in the doorway of his own living-room, caused a great deal of trouble after death, since, as the saga puts it, ‘unpleasant as he was to deal with while he lived, the more so did he become after he was dead’. At first he hung about the farm, frightening the servants and molesting people in the neighbourhood until the house was left empty. Then a courageous person nearby dug up his body, amid Hrappr was somewhat less of a nuisance after this, but still did some damage. At last he lay in wait for a cow-herd of Olaf Pái, and Olaf proved himself more strong-minded than Hrappr’s other neighbours, and put an end to his tricks for good. This he did by attacking Hrappr and wrestling with him until the draugr took refuge in the ground, after which he dug up the body—still undecayed and with the spearhead he had lost in the previous fight beside it—and burnt it on a pyre; and from that time no one had any trouble from Hrappr’s walking’.
[...]
In all these cases, with the possible exception of the appearance of Klaufi in his sledge, it is clear that the haunting is done by the actual dead body itself, which leaves its grave-mound and is possessed of superhuman strength and unlimited malice. When the body is destroyed, the power of the draugr is at an end. "

see: www.runewebvitki.com/Road_To_Hel.pdf

In the runic finds, I like to bring up two where a charm is assumed to keep the the dead person in the netherworld and not to return as a draugr:

Gorlev rune-stone (Zealand, Denmark; c. 800-850):

Thjothvi (a woman) raised this stone in memory of Othinkarr. (16-sign futhark). Enjoy the grave well. "Thistle, mistletoe, chest". I placed the runes correctly. Gunni (and) Armundr buried (him).

The charm being mentioned here that gave the assumption of protecting the person from returning as a 'draugr' is: Thistle, Mistletoe, chest'. Which in this find and the second that will be explained shortly; that the charm is used as some type of locking charm (i.e. to prevent the dead from walking on mithgard or to keep grave-robbers out). Which in this cause to keep the dead from changing into a 'draugr'.

Ledberg rune-stone (Ostergotland, Sweden; early 11th century):
(B?)isi placed this stone in memory of Thorgautr ci...t, his father, and both he and Gunna (placed it). "Thistle, Mistletoe, chest".

Which in this find the Thistle charm suggested that there was some fear of Thorgautr becoming a draugr, that is if we accept that this is the same curse from the above rune-stone mentioned?

ref: John Mckinnell and Rudolf Simek with Klaus Duwel (2004), Runes, Magic and Religion: A Sourcebook., Fassbaender, Wien.

Any thoughts?

Best,

Mike

posted in Futhark - 6 replies

Protection or Script?

Mon, 29 Oct 2007 00:06:01 GMT

The Kylver Stone found in a grave in Gotland that dates to the 5th century is the oldest find we have with the complete Migration Period Runes known as the Elder futhark. What was particular interesting about this find that most scholars debate is: why the full futhark in the grave that was facing the corpse? Though the most skeptic of scholars that feel that runes did not have a magical function seems to agree that some type of protection was assumed of this full futhark to keep the spirit from walking on Mithgard.

http://home.no.net/ahruner/go-rune-kylver.jpg

Kylver flat Stone (1st half of the 5th century)
Side 1: fuþarkgwhnijpïRstbemlhdo
a complete Futhark, where the Pertho rune is placed before the Ihwaz rune.
Side 2: sueus
a palindrome that we don’t know how to interpret.
Moltke dates this inscription to the year 400 and compares the formula sueus to sis of the Flemlose stone 2.

Best,

Mike

posted in Futhark - 0 replies

Newbie on list

Ani — Tue, 16 Oct 2007 16:29:17 GMT

Hi, Just wanted to say I am here and not lurking... I am a member of Heathen Hearth.

Ani
www.awenglow.com

posted in Futhark - 1 reply

Hail the Heathen Gods!

Ludwig — Thu, 13 Sep 2007 05:24:39 GMT

Thanks for allowing me to join your tribe. I'm fairly new to Heathenry. I'm Folkish, conservative, and attempting to form a Kindred in the Kansas City area...a city that has been without a Kindred of any sort for a while now. I'm a police sergeant, and I'm married with three kids.

I also built the Temple of Our Heathen Gods, a website at heathengods.com. It will be the eventual home of the Kindred we are building...and it has a Temple Library, interesting articles about Heathenry, and a message board.

Any input, suggestions, or comments you may have about the website would be very welcome. It has quite a bit of content for being so new, but I could really use your advice and input to make it better.

Thanks!

Ludwig
http://www.heathengods.com

posted in Futhark - 3 replies

Viking brooch iconography, Celtic influenced?

GionMan — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 06:11:30 GMT

Hello, my name is Kerry Drew, and I love all manner of antiques and collectables, but especially items of so called, "barbarian", jewelry, and amulets created for magical purposes.

I have been a history lover since I was 8 or 9 and I am especially interested in the Vikings, Scythians, Celts, Mayans, Greeks, Romans, Thracians, and Ancient Egyptian cultures, as well as the Jomon, Yayoi, and Kofun periods in Japan, but nothing of ancient historical significance fails to interest me.

I am a highly skilled jeweler, and metalsmith, with over 30 years experience, who offers his services to the general public, but particularly to those who prize fine craftsmanship in antiquities, and ancient style jewelry.

Currently, I have several items available which any true lover of ancient art and antiquities might wish to see, and very possibly own!

While I appreciate that this is a Tribe focused on Viking culture, here is one notable example, an auction item which is ending very soon, of special interest to both Celtic and Viking buffs:

tinyurl.com/2shefe

I was old by one person that this brooch was probably crafted in or around Dublin in the mid-to late 10th century, and shoiws Celtic influences, I am deeply interested in any opinions my fellow Tribe members might have about the iconograpy and symbolism of this wonderful Viking piece!

I am offering LaTene/Celtic, Viking, Egyptian, Roman, and other fine items of historical style jewelry.

Please patronize your fellow tribe members, and myself in particular!

stores.ebay.com/HYPERBOREAN-GIFTS

(Help keep a well meaning jeweler, and artisan on the straight and narrow!)

In addition, I specialize in the careful treatment of antiques and antiquities, while reproducing them, so that the designs can be worn and appreciated on a regular basis, with no risk to rare and/or fragile antiquities.

Should you have a ring, seal, scarab, buckle, amulet or other item of any material, which you would like to reproduce, in silver, gold or bronze, please let me know.

References are available by request.

Thanks for your kind attention!

Sincerely,

Kerry Drew @}:^)>c

Richmond California, USA

kerryika@gmail.com

posted in Futhark - 0 replies

Runic "calendar"

Darken — Fri, 22 Dec 2006 02:33:24 GMT

Hi,

Inspired by Jul, I tried to draw a wheel of year with runes inside. Maybe if known concept, but I didn't know about it and I was excited how the runes corresponds with each of eight holiday. What do you thing about it? Do you agree with runes assigned to holidays?

The image: http://sweb.cz/koudelkamichal/wheel.jpg

posted in Futhark - 7 replies

www.hexmagazine.com

white flower tattoo — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 11:11:44 GMT

HAVE A LOOK!.....

posted in Futhark - 0 replies

Hand Poke tattooing in SF at the end of June 2007....

white flower tattoo — Sat, 09 Jun 2007 12:58:36 GMT

I'll be Tattooing at BrainDrops in SF at the end of June, anyone intrested in recieving a hand done tattoo? please make contact....

Cheers
Airick

posted in Futhark - 0 replies

Euro-Spring Fest

Vinlands-Volva — Wed, 11 Apr 2007 00:23:50 GMT

I have returned from a paid speaker's engagement at Euro-Spring Festival in Maryland. It is the first time I have ever experienced snow on Easter.

Nonetheless, we were all outside - some 50+ folk - walking along the creek bed, throwing spears and axes, hunting for easter eggs, enjoying the informative classes - mine included! - and generally having a wonderful time.

Mike Gast and his lovely wife Victoria are impecable hosts with a beautiful 100+ year olf and that is warm and inviting. Their two children, Brynhild and Rhinehard, are intelligent and playful; I taught Brynhild how to throw - and stick! - her first spear!

As Vinland's Völva, my full-time job is writing, lecturing and seidhwork .. and as I travel about the country in this capacity, I am ever amazed at the great Heathen works being created by so many wonderful folk.

Hail the Folk!
Hail the Folkbuilders!

... Yngona Desmond
http://vinlandsvolva.com/

posted in Futhark - 0 replies

numeric value

*foul tasting faery* — Sun, 18 Mar 2007 19:11:42 GMT

Does anybody know where I can get information on the numeric value of runes? Apparently they are similar to the numeric value of the Hebrew alphabet. Thanks!

posted in Futhark - 2 replies

rune images/jpegs

Kim — Mon, 12 Mar 2007 22:14:11 GMT

Does anyone know of a good site to go to for rune images? I want to create my own reference book for when I do readings but haven't had any real success at finding good images that I want to use. Of course, now that I put this out for all of you to help me with I will not simply do a Google search and find a site, but you input will be greatly appreciated!

Kim

posted in Futhark - 2 replies

Hodmimir Holt

Vinlands-Volva — Fri, 09 Feb 2007 14:10:20 GMT

Hodmimir Holt is a Heathen Metaphysical Center.

When:
Sunday, February 11
(second Sunday of every month).

What Time:
Hodmimir Holt class starts at 10:30.

Topic:
Hodmimir Holt - "Singing the Runes: Pronunciation and Galdr".

Bring?:
HH is a class, so bring note-taking material.

Where:
Atlanta, GA (Gwinnett County)

If you have not been here yet, email for additional info:
yngona@yahoo.com

... Yngona Desmond

posted in Futhark - 0 replies

Intro

Mike — Wed, 07 Feb 2007 11:41:50 GMT

I'm new here, just wanted to intro myself and make myself known. I've been using the runes as a secret script since I was 13 (roughly 20 years), and have just recently made a serious study of the esoteric side of the runes. I have spent this past year studying the elder futhark, and am about to complete a review of the 24 (I don't use the blank rune at all, I believe it's a false rune, and the mysteries attributed to it are the within the domain of Perthro). I will never abandon the use of the elder futhark, as it is the futhark I feel most comfortable with. I do however plan on expanding into the other three futharks. I look forward to interacting with and learning from the rest of you. I could use some heathen friends, so add me if you wish.

posted in Futhark - 1 reply

Burn true burn right

Otto — Fri, 22 Dec 2006 08:34:15 GMT

Tonight is the Noel aka the yule tide.From the Darkness comes the light.Break out your tines it's the night to give life to the runes.To bring life.
-Yule tide blessings
-Otto

posted in Futhark - 1 reply

Holt and L&L

Vinlands-Volva — Tue, 26 Dec 2006 13:41:03 GMT

Tim and I have decided to combine the activities of Hodmimir's Holt and Lunch and Lore into one weekend.

As always, L&L will be the *second Sunday of every month*. Hodmimir's Holt will be the *second Saturday of every month*.

For those who are new:
-Lunch and Lore is a five year Georgia Heathen Society tradition. Lunch is Euro-traditional potluck meals, and Lore is an interactive lecture.

-Hodmimir Holt is new. Its first-ever class will be January 2007. Held in Heimat Hof, Hodmimir Holt is a magic 'college'. There will be regular classes here on runes, galdr, seidhr, spae, wortcunning, leechcraft and the like.

Hodmimir Holt has been designed as a teaching college, a place of Lore-based learning. As such, each month will be a 'chapter' in the 'first book'. Each class / chapter is open to the public and geared to both the beginner who is seriously interested in an initiatory spiritual
path, and the seasoned fjolkyngi.

Therefore, the Holt's first class begins on Saturday, January 13; and
Lunch and Lore is Sunday, January 14.

Hodmimir Holt will begin with an introduction to the premise of a Lore-based magic college, then lead into its first class, "World Tree - The Seer's Web".

Lunch and Lore's lecture has yet to be determined.

So try to join us, in Atlanta, GA, for this momentous Southlands event: the introduction to *our* own regional teaching college of Lore-based knowledge.

Folkbuild Deliberately!
Yngona

posted in Futhark - 0 replies

Midnight Sun

Vinlands-Volva — Thu, 21 Dec 2006 21:46:10 GMT

Tonight is Winter Solstice, and as I usually do this night, I sit-out, about a fire, under the stars, until Sunna's return.

I made a blog entry today about this night, and this tide:
vinlands-volva.blogspot.com/

May the Midnigh Sun Shine Bright Upon You!

... Yngona

posted in Futhark - 0 replies

Heimat Hof

Vinlands-Volva — Wed, 15 Nov 2006 15:08:16 GMT

Heimat Hof is the Southlands only Hof and Heathen Cultural Center.

I have created a blog for the Hof to keep everyone updated on events there. Right now, because the Hof is new, all the entries focus on updates.
http://heimathof.blogspot.com/

This is also the location of Hodmimir Holt – a Heathen magic gild. Regular classes begin in January 2007.

Needless to say we are very proud and incredibly thankful to be able to offer this sanctuary to Folkish Heathens throughout the Southlands and across Midgard.

Live Deliberately!
Yngona

Völuspá - Seiðr as Wyrd Consciousness
http://tinyurl.com/h75d6

Vinland's Völva
http://vinlandsvolva.com/

posted in Futhark - 1 reply

Bindrune Talisman

Lobo — Wed, 04 Oct 2006 16:26:29 GMT

Hailsa,
My name is Phil, I'm new to the tribe and I'd like to share something with you. I practice runic magick and was looking online for Asatru jewelery. Specifically, a Thor's hammer. Nothing that I saw really "WOWed" me. I then realized that the best Mjolnir of all was one that I could make myself. Years ago when I was first introduced to the runes, I had planted an apple tree (I make my runes from applewood). In treelore applewood signifies love. So, my talisman is a disk of pale applewood about 1-1/4" in diameter with a 9/32" hole to hang on a necklace of knotted hemp string. I burned the immage of Mjolnir in with a soldering iron after tracing the design with a fiff file, it's like a jewelers file. I picked this ornate design from an ancient one I saw on the internet. The soldering iron lends itself perfictly to this dotted type design. It has a 1/32" pionted tip on it. When it was done I painted the hammer with red paint. Blue and red or oaker are good for runes. While the paint was still wet I traced it with the iron to create this beautiful burned black on red Mjolnir. When the time was right, I performed the "Hammer Rite" and stained the back of the talisman with blood from my pagan hand. The iron worked so well, I burned the bindrune in, instead of cutting them in. Sometimes I'll put "belongs to Phil" on the back of a talisman in runes where I stain them. On the back of this one I created the bindrune; Thurisaz-Kenaz-ingwaz-isa. The meanings of the runes and the bind are perfictly clear to me and are powerful magick. This has allready brought me what I've been looking for before the cut healed. The bind is so beautifully done. It's black burn on dark red bloodstain, perfictly symmetrical. Whenever I look at it I'm reminded that It is mine and tied to me personally. The mystery of the runes is powerfull and wonderfull and a very personal thing to me, and now I'm happy to share them you.

posted in Futhark - 0 replies

Gods and the runes?

Stiobhan — Sun, 17 Apr 2005 04:08:33 GMT

Here's an interesting subject (I hope) for you all...

Almost all who work with rune magics know about the story of Odin's sacrifice on the great Tree, and his discovery of the runes. Many have read further of his studies of 'women's magics,' or seidh, from Freya, who is Queen of the Vanir, the deities of nature and fertility, much like those gods worshipped currently by Witches everywhere.

But many versions of Odin's story make an important distinction about the runes: The runes are older than the gods themselves. They have existed long before, and were present as a part of the depths of the Tree itself, when Odin claimed them.

So, my question: Many people attach gods to the various aettir and runes, some to better remember them, some because they have learned them as being connected. So, are the runes linked to the Gods of the North, or are the Gods linked to them? Or are they separate?

What's your view?

:)
By Sun and Shadow entwined,
Stiobhan

posted in Futhark - 20 replies

making your own set

Juno — Fri, 10 Jun 2005 17:36:22 GMT

After studying and reading about the runes, I'd like to have a set of my own but buying a pre-made set doesn't appeal to me. I feel a relationship with the runes needs to be more organic. Has anyone here made their set of runes? If so, from what materials and how?

posted in Futhark - 8 replies

Warrior Pendant on Ebay

boarhead — Tue, 01 Aug 2006 14:27:19 GMT

I just bought this item off Ebay and really like the craftsmanship on the item. What I don't like is my inability to decipher the phrases on both the front and back of the item. Can anyone help me here?

http://cgi.ebay.com/VALHALLA-Norse-Pendant-Odin-Viking-Warriors-Necklace_W0QQitemZ180011294670QQcmdZViewItem

posted in Futhark - 2 replies

Wolfsangel

Sedusa — Tue, 01 Aug 2006 04:26:08 GMT

Is there any genuine Runic history to the Wolfsangel or is it merely a herald's mark ascribed to the Futhark by Von List?

posted in Futhark - 0 replies

Dagaz and Othila

snailtrail — Mon, 02 Jan 2006 04:21:16 GMT

Thoughts on the last rune of the elder futhark? Some place dagaz/daeg there and others place Othila.

My tendency is to place othila there as an answer to the initial fehu... moveable wealth and inherited wealth..... that which can be traded, and that which is inherited.... the position of othila at the end seems to 'give' the futhark as a bloodright to the runester. As far as Dagaz at the end, the idea of balance and ending in light is powerful, bringing the futhark into the daily routine of of our lives, giving the Runes their due place every day..... but.... I'm more drawn to othila at the end of the Elder.

Thoughts, arguments, death threats, or marriage proposals?
Jesse

posted in Futhark - 5 replies

Rûna #17

Meka — Thu, 27 Apr 2006 07:31:22 GMT

Do you guys know about the magazine "Rûna"?

Rûna is an excellent magazine devoted to Exploring Northern European Myth, Mystery, and Magic
Produced by Eormensyl of the Rune-Gild
Edited by Ian Read and Michael Deacon, Jnr
North American Editor: Michael Moynihan

Articles by Sarah Crofts, Dave Lee, Roger Digby, Ingrid Wultsch, John Kirkpatrick, and P. D. Brown. Includes a conversation with Stephen Edred Flowers.
Price: $7
Available from www.IOTBooks.com
(based in the US and shipping worldwide)

posted in Futhark - 0 replies

Heiðinn Hearth

Vinlands-Volva — Tue, 11 Apr 2006 22:19:28 GMT

A tribal hearth:
http://tribes.tribe.net/heathen-hearth

posted in Futhark - 0 replies

advice????

Thu, 08 Dec 2005 20:55:37 GMT

first of all, i wanted to say hi, i just joined this tribe today. Im very new to runes, been around them a lot... but very new to doing the readings myself. I infact just got my set of runes a week ago. I was wondering if anyone on here may have any advice?? thank you in advance for any and all your help.

posted in Futhark - 3 replies

New Tribe: Hekate and Liminal Magick

sirenmagick — Mon, 23 Jan 2006 20:10:25 GMT

For open-minded occult seekers, and all who are interested in exploring, or simply adoring, the Goddess Hekate and/or the topic of Liminal Magick, please join this discussion...share your insights!

tribes.tribe.net/hekatesmagick

blessings in all shades :)
saeth

posted in Futhark - 0 replies

Tribe for Freyr

Wed, 28 Dec 2005 02:06:22 GMT

Hello Everyone,

I hope you don't mind me posting this about the new tribe I created for Freyr. Could you please let other people know about this on other Norse, Heathen, or Pagan related tribes you belong to? I'd appreciate it! I created this tribe since there wasn't already one specifically for Freyr and the Vanir! Thanks!

Badger

posted in Futhark - 1 reply

Trees of the Aettir

snailtrail — Fri, 09 Dec 2005 01:02:10 GMT

Has anyone noticed, worked with, or had any revelations about the three 'trees' of the Elder Futhark? Each aett has a 'tree' rune in it- Ansuz (Ash), Eihwaz (Yew), and Berkana (Birch). What influences or connections does this have to the other runes of the each aett and to the whole of the futhark.... if any....

I suppose it could help one focus a reading- if the general energy around a person, or perhaps their question, is related to the first aett, use an ash set maybe.... second, use a yew set..... third aett use a birch set? My juvenile brain knows this can't be the limits of such a connection...

Ash and Yew have the reputations as world trees - Yggdrasil and Irminsul- and then there's birch.... hidden potential, birthing, promise of growth, the loud resounding scream of sap flow.....

I have to ponder this more.

Thoughts?

posted in Futhark - 3 replies

Gratitude - Freya/Freyr

thorncoyle — Fri, 04 Nov 2005 16:49:41 GMT

Blessings to the Lords of Plenty

All Hail, Freyr, and all hail Freya,
King and Queen of sex, and goods and love.
All hail you boldened Fey ones, monarchs of the shining light.
All hail to you who make the gold flow, and the wine.

All hail to you, for whom libations pour in tangled branch.
King and Queen of faerie, elf and wight,
All hail to you, who rule the sideways glimmerings of eye.
All hail fashioners of magic, wish, bright trade.

You, I salute. You two, I thank. May your pleasure rise with mine.

posted in Futhark - 1 reply

etruscan/ futhark

Meka — Tue, 08 Feb 2005 09:39:41 GMT

"The Germanic Runes (the Futharc) are now thought to derive from the Northern Etruscan alphabet, a fact which supports the existence of a vast Etruscan trading network."

from http://www.mysteriousetruscans.com/language.html

How many other sources are there that support or refute this statement?
I know Thorsson mentions the "possible" relation of the two languages at some point (possibly in "Futhark"?) but I htink he considered it quite speculative at the time (10 years ago).

Meka
(also posted to Etruria tribe)

posted in Futhark - 2 replies

Hey everyone, need some help with a rune meaning

Mon, 07 Nov 2005 08:30:25 GMT

I am very interested in the rune, Thurisaz, otherwise known as Thorn. I would like to obtain any detailed, explicit essays, articles and possible publication regarding this particular rune and it's true meaning, looking at it from all possible view points. Also, I've seen t drawn a couple of different ways. Sometimes with the thorn a bit higher on the vertical line and other times centered almost. Which is the correct way, or rather, what are the differences and also direction it points. Any info would be EXTREMELY appreciated, thanks!!!!

posted in Futhark - 2 replies

Open discussion on Bindrunes!

Noah — Fri, 30 Sep 2005 17:16:09 GMT

I have always been driven to create talisman... Since I discovered the concept of bindrunes several months ago I have been feeling a stronger pull... please share your knowledge of runes, bindrunes, and talisman here...

may your rune blade remain finely honed
much love,

noah

posted in Futhark - 3 replies

Seidmages in Vancouver BC

Wee James — Fri, 30 Sep 2005 04:09:33 GMT

Im interested in meeting with or collaborating with anyone who is interested in shaking and seething trancework in Vancity. I would also like to hookup with anybody interested in Draconian and darker pagan currents. I have a background in Ceremonial Magick, Chaos Magick and some Shamanic experience.

posted in Futhark - 0 replies

waves hi....

dark_frostus — Sat, 13 Aug 2005 05:30:47 GMT

hi from baltimore.... ^_^ dark

posted in Futhark - 2 replies

Runic Abstracts

Sun, 19 Dec 2004 10:00:21 GMT

I discovered millions of runic forms that emerge through the sacred primal crystal snowflake aka the flower of life. See image in photo bank. :-)

As they have probably never been seen or utilised by humans most will have no local (ancestral) morphogenetic field of power associated with them. However that are all full to bursting with primal creative power on a universal morphogenetic field level.

From the seed of the flower of life alone pour 16,777,216 different abstracts and this is only on the 2d level.

Anyone ever concidered 3D or 4D runes? Would really need a holographic projector to do them justice . . . the mind of of the Runemage is best though!

posted in Futhark - 4 replies

What techniques do you use?

Thu, 26 Feb 2004 21:12:25 GMT

I haven't had much formal training with runes... I can read what has been cast, but I'm not sure how that casting itself is to proceed. Any thoughts?

posted in Futhark - 10 replies

algiz

summer — Fri, 29 Apr 2005 21:58:19 GMT

so...my friend whos a palmist(since a little girl)has found something in my palm shes never seen.my lifeline is split into 3...ALGIZ.any thoughts ,Ideas,revelations?

posted in Futhark - 2 replies

New Seattle pagans tribe

Otter — Mon, 10 Jan 2005 03:03:38 GMT

Come join your Seattle pagan neighbors at:
www.seattleareapagans.tribe.net
Thanks for your time.

Peace,
Otter.

posted in Futhark - 0 replies

By the Power of 3 x 3

Fri, 17 Dec 2004 17:35:12 GMT

Greetings

Scottish Runemagi here . . . have placed an image offering in the photo bank. Genesis Template and 9 Staves. Meditation upon these forms are illuminating.

In my view runes were not developed by humans, they are self-existing and spring into existence when the Omniverse was meditated into form by the nameless.

Also, see the Torch of Life in the image bank, practical rune magic on a planetary scale.

Blessings

OM

Home Site:
www.spirit-of-yggdrasil.com

posted in Futhark - 0 replies

May I come in?

Sun, 12 Sep 2004 04:36:44 GMT

Hi.
I'm Jack Cutterswine. I hope to share some challenging and enlightening things with you all.

posted in Futhark - 2 replies

pre-cog runic spell to the fall of the Frost Giants, 9/11

Sat, 11 Sep 2004 10:30:32 GMT

*'spelled' in mid 09/99*

FROST GIANTS

Block crystal shards fourth the capitol cities
hoarding is the preface to the portal square
snow channels simulcast, ice fortunes raise apart
from sustenance, shelter and society imagined...
to shatter the height and further our kind
unanimous metropolitan fracture in their safe is fear.

posted in Futhark - 0 replies

Moon phases and reading

SatyaLila — Tue, 29 Jun 2004 15:43:46 GMT

I am interested to hear how others use the moon cycles to determine their times of casting. Do you let this influence when you use the runes? Do you use another timeline to decipher when the time is right, or is it based purely on instinct and intuition?

Satya

posted in Futhark - 0 replies

anyone do other rune systems?

Sat, 28 Feb 2004 06:44:31 GMT

What of using other alphabets for runes?

posted in Futhark - 4 replies

class at Ancient Ways

heidealist — Wed, 19 May 2004 22:49:56 GMT

Hey, someone named Keath is teaching a Runic Magic class at Ancient Ways (in Oakland) on Wednesday nights starting the 26th of May.

Anybody know anything about this guy? Anybody else want to check out the class with me?

posted in Futhark - 0 replies